Samsung Electronics announced on Thursday that its research into next-generation clothing-drying technology has been selected for official support by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
The company is spearheading research on a next-generation desiccant dryer with a heat-recovery system to develop a dryer that delivers high energy efficiency and powerful drying performance.
For this groundbreaking study, Samsung is collaborating with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), the largest national laboratory in the U.S., and the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of South Carolina.
The project centers on incorporating a highly efficient dehumidifying material, desiccant, into clothing dryers. The goal is to maintain superior drying performance while dramatically reducing energy consumption.
Specifically, the team aims to slash electricity usage during the drying process by up to 65% compared to vented dryers, all while maintaining equivalent drying performance.
Vented dryers, which are highly popular in the North American market due to their quick expulsion of humid air and shorter drying times, face challenges in the U.S. Their relatively low efficiency makes them difficult to operate on standard 120V power, often requiring separate 240V electrical installations.
Additionally, these dryers require ductwork for expelling external air, which presents another limitation.
The commercialization of Samsung’s next-generation drying technology could revolutionize the industry by enabling powerful dryers that operate on 120V power without additional ductwork.
This next-generation dryer would have fewer installation constraints, making it suitable for a wide range of living spaces, including multi-family housing and compact apartments.
Over the next two years, Samsung Electronics, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and the University of South Carolina will receive $1.2 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Energy. The partners will match this with an additional $1.2 million, bringing the total research budget to $2.4 million.
Samsung intends to apply the findings from this drying solution research across a spectrum of products, including standalone dryers and washer-dryer combos.
Moon Jong Seung, vice president of Samsung Electronics’ DA Division, emphasized that the research project represents a tangible opportunity to translate innovative energy-saving technology into real value for consumers. He added that through collaboration with global research institutions, the company aims to expand its lineup of home appliances that support sustainable living.